Pope Francis to “Staycation”

In a note released today, the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household announced that, during the summer period, all private and special audiences will be suspended. The Wednesday general audiences of 3,10, 17, and 31 July are likewise suspended and will resume again from 7 August. On Sunday, 14 July, the Holy Father will pray the Angelus from the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo. From Monday, 22 July, to Monday, 29 July, the Holy Father will travel to Brazil for the 28th World Youth Day. Director of the Holy See Press Office, Fr. Federico Lombardi, S.J., explained this morning that the pontiff’s normal residence for the summer period will continue to be the Domus Sanctae Marthae, even if he will occasionally travel to Castel Gandolfo, as for the Sunday Angelus on 14 July. Further, the morning Masses in the chapel of the Domus will be suspended from 7 July.

He does have a special jaunt to Brazil planned for World Youth Day, but perhaps the rest of us should be inspired to enjoy the pleasures of home a bit more this summer like our Holy Father.

A question for you:What are your plans for summer vacation this year? Are you — or your kids — headed to World Youth Day?

On un-intended consequence might be the effect on the merchants in Castel Gandolfo. I am sure the restaurants and shops count on the summer visitors who flock here to see the Holy Father. Just saying there are sometimes when simplicity is not necessarily the best option. But I suppose a lot of people—especially Europeans–are staying closer to home this year due to the economic crisis.

lisahendey

wow, great point! I truly hadn’t even thought of that aspect…

lisahendey

And thanks for the great pics!!

Gordis85

Papa Francis is simply following the norm he has always followed…he rarely ventured outside of Buenos Aires when Cardinal…he should be able to do the same as Pope so I support his decision. A happy Papa makes for a better Papa and lives longer too. I am hoping that some of those hot Roman days will be spent in the shade of the Vatican Gardens eating lunch with Papa Benito and swapping stories about life, faith, the papacy and other wonderful conversations that might be had…how I wish I was a Vatican gardener and I was nearby…wishful thinking. May Papa Francis have a wonderful vacation!

Allison Gingras

Note to Self. Don’t visit Rome in the Summer, if your goal is to see the Pope. Glad I’m going to Rio 🙂

Oh how I would love to go to WYD…but no. We’re sorta staycationing this summer too. And there’s something to be said for that, if I don’t kill myself or the kids in the midst of the everyday, that is. 🙂